Mediation:
The Path to a Cooperative Solution

Legal disputes can be stressful and time-consuming, particularly when it comes to personal or family matters. Mediation offers a simpler, more collaborative way to resolve conflicts without the formality of court. Working with a Calgary mediation lawyer provides guidance, structure, and legal insight to help you reach solutions that are fair, practical, and mutually acceptable.
Understanding Mediation
Mediation is a supportive process that helps parties work through disputes with the guidance of a specially trained, neutral professional. Our Calgary mediation lawyers help facilitate open communication, guide parties through an interest-based process, and help them find solutions that are fair and mutually acceptable.
How Mediation Works
When mediation is successful, the parties formalize their agreement in a legally binding contract. If no agreement is reached, either party may pursue other options, such as litigation or an alternative form of dispute resolution.
Mediation can also be combined with arbitration in a hybrid process. In this approach, the parties first attempt to resolve all issues collaboratively through mediation. Any unresolved matters are then addressed by the mediator acting as an arbitrator, who conducts a hearing and issues a final, binding decision.

Benefits of Mediation
One of the greatest advantages of mediation is its flexibility. Sessions can take place with or without lawyers, depending on your needs. While legal guidance is often important for finalizing agreements, the mediation process itself can proceed without lawyers, which can help reduce costs. Parties may also choose to share the expense of a single mediator and a lawyer for the final stages, making the process more manageable and affordable.
The Mediation Process
Mediation begins with all parties meeting with the mediator to discuss the dispute. Unlike court, where a judge makes decisions, mediation gives participants control over the process and the outcomes.
Step 1: Intake
We begin the mediation process with an initial meeting to establish every party’s goals so we can work towards a mutually agreeable resolution. This involves:
- Setting the Stage: Review the process and communication guidelines.
- Sharing & Exploring: Discuss background, interests, and common goals.
- Defining Success: Identify what an acceptable resolution looks like, including legal considerations.
- Temporary Plans: Decide if an interim plan is needed while working toward a final solution.
- Next Steps: Create an agenda and actionable tasks for each party before the next session.
Step 2: Gathering Information
Foundation work involves gathering all the information required in order to move forward with a meaningful and effective negotiation. This includes:
- Financial or Operational Disclosure: Collect and exchange key information.
- Snapshot Analysis: Create charts, summaries, or reports to guide the discussions.
- Specialist Input: Engage experts as needed, such as business valuators, appraisers, or industry consultants.
Step 3: Negotiation & Settlement
Parties share their goals and explore potential solutions. Our Calgary mediation lawyers guide creative problem-solving, helping identify options tailored to the unique circumstances of the dispute. Each issue is addressed methodically to ensure nothing is overlooked, and tentative agreements are established before finalizing a comprehensive resolution.
Step 4: Solution & Agreement
Our Calgary mediation lawyers help evaluate the pros and cons of different options, supporting all parties in selecting practical, fair solutions that address everyone’s interests. A detailed written agreement is then prepared, reviewed, and finalized to reflect the settlement accurately.
How Our Calgary Mediation Lawyers Can Help
While legal representation is not mandatory for mediations, having an experienced mediation lawyer ensures your rights and interests are protected. At Jones Divorce & Family Law, our Calgary team guides parties through the process, explores fair solutions, and ensures agreements comply with Alberta law.
If you’re looking for a respectful, efficient, and collaborative way to resolve disputes, our lawyers are here to support you every step of the way.
Find a Resolution that Works for You and Your Family with
Jones Divorce & Family Law
While legal representation is not mandatory for mediations, having an experienced mediation lawyer ensures your rights and interests are protected. At Jones Divorce & Family Law, our Calgary team guides parties through the process, explores fair solutions, and ensures agreements comply with Alberta law.
If you’re looking for a respectful, efficient, and collaborative way to resolve disputes, our lawyers are here to support you every step of the way.
Mediation: Frequently Asked Questions
What is divorce mediation?
Divorce mediation involves a neutral third party who helps couples work through disputes on topics including property division, child support, or parenting arrangements. The goal is to help you and your spouse reach a solution that is fair and mutually acceptable.
What issues can mediation resolve?
Mediation can help on any number of topics, including:
- Property and debt division
- Spousal support
- Parenting time and decision-making
- Child support
- Family agreements, including pre- and post-nuptial agreements
- Cohabitation agreements
- Separations
- Guardianship
Why choose mediation over court?
Mediation allows you to retain control and reduce conflict as you navigate your dispute. It is also a less stressful and more cost-effective solution compared to litigation.
How long does mediation take?
Every situation is different. Mediation proceedings can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Timing depends on complexity and how quickly you exchange information and reach a compromise.
Do we need lawyers if we mediate?
While it’s not necessary to have a lawyer during the mediation process, mediators don’t offer legal advice. Many couples get independent legal advice to review the final agreement and file documents.
What if we don’t reach an agreement?
If you aren’t able to reach a solution through mediation, you can move to collaborative law or arbitration. If you’re still unable to reach a verdict, court proceedings and litigation are always an option.
Disclaimer: The content provided in the blog posts of Jones Divorce & Family Law is general information and should not be considered legal advice. Please contact a lawyer for legal advice tailored to your specific situation. All articles are current as of their original publication date.
